National Craft Month is coming to a close, and I finished my nine-foot-long scarf just in time!
With seven different stitch patterns worked across horizontal, vertical, and diagonal sections, this project presented quite the challenge. I may have even cried on it a few times.
But the one thing that helped me persevere through this harrowing wool journey (besides the occasional wine break) was listening to the right music at the right time. With our streaming music service, hoopla, opens a new window, I had all the music I needed to keep me in a zen-like crafting state and curb any further weeping over dropped stitches.
For repetitive, straightforward tasks, like working a simple stitch pattern that doesn't require every ounce of my focus and concentration, I listen to music that simply makes me feel happy. Namely, early hits from Motown Records!
Motown Classics: Gold, opens a new window
This robust collection of soul and R&B classics from the iconic record label is sure to put a smile on your face. Don't be surprised if you're tempted to take a fortifying dance break and boogie around the living room to the Jackson 5!
For those dreaded problem-solving moments, like having to rip out an entire section of scarf because you misread your knitting pattern, there's nothing quite like '70s soft rock hits to keep me chilled out and focused!
One of my all-time favorite albums from one of my all-time favorite bands, Fleetwood Mac's Rumours is the sonic equivalent of luxuriating in a hammock and making daisy chains. I can feel my blood pressure lowering already!
For teaching myself a new skill, like how to knit cables or the whimsical popcorn stitch, I work best with an instrumental soundtrack.
Green Onions, opens a new window
If you're looking for a more up-tempo instrumental vibe, look no further than Green Onions. This 1962 Stax Records classic combines bluesy guitar with groovy organ riffs and will make anything you're working on feel utterly slick and cool.
What's on your crafting playlist? Let me know in the comments!
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